An Analysis of Students' Language Politeness toward Lecturers in Communication via WhatsApp: A Pragmatic Study

Abstract

This study was motivated by the researcher’s findings regarding students’ violations of linguistic politeness when communicating face-to-face with lecturers. These violations involved the use of overly casual language and excessive joking, resulting in a decline in linguistic politeness. The study aims to describe the principles of linguistic politeness observed by students in their interactions with lecturers, as well as the factors influencing such politeness during communication via WhatsApp. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method using the pragmatic approach of Leech and Brown. The research data consist of words, phrases, sentences, and clauses derived from screenshots of chat exchanges between students and lecturers. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and note-taking, and subsequently analyzed using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing.The research results indicate that no violations of linguistic politeness principles were found; all student utterances adhered to these principles. However, based on the volume of words and sentences employed, the most dominant principles observed were the principles of tact, generosity, and approbation. Furthermore, it was identified that three factors influence student politeness toward lecturers: social distance, social status, and the type of speech act. Politeness in students’ WhatsApp communication with lecturers goes beyond mere formality; it demonstrates their ability to uphold ethical standards and courtesy toward lecturers, even in a digital messaging environment. This practice fosters harmonious relationships and facilitates the academic communication process.